under a cloud

1. Under suspicion, in trouble, or out of favor, as in Ever since his brother was accused of fraud, he's been under a cloud. This metaphoric expression calls up the image of a single black cloud hanging over an individual. [c. 1500]

Example Sentences

"The deal might work on paper - but in practice, it will always sit under a cloud," Ms Jaidka said.

From BBC

And this time they have dropped into the Championship under a cloud of uncertainty, the threat of a points penalty hanging over the club for allegedly breaching spending rules when they were promoted from the division as title winners just over a year ago.

From BBC

The other, in Florida's panhandle region, will determine a replacement for Matt Gaetz, the firebrand congressman Trump originally picked to be attorney general before he withdrew under a cloud of sexual misconduct and ethics allegations.

From BBC

While his attorneys were able to extend the 60-day order many times, Lennon lived under a cloud while the appeals moved forward.

From Salon

"It's hugely emotional for a lot of reasons. His family find it very hard. Jockeys in Ireland, England and around the world have been under a cloud in the last couple of weeks."

From BBC

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